Education in the Biomedical Sciences with placement in industry/research institute or period of study overseas, 4 years full time.
The University has robust approval processes to ensure the quality and standards of its new programmes.
Initially the University gives provisional approval of a proposed programme on the basis of an outline description and that is what is presented in this prospectus entry.
The programme proposal is subsequently developed in detail and is then considered at a formal event, we call evaluation or validation, for final approval and through that process some significant changes may be made to the programme to enhance the final version.
You should therefore expect that some changes will be made to the programme as described in this prospectus.
Summary
BSc Hons Biomedical Science with Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP)/Diploma in International Academic Studies (DIAS) 4 years full-time. In order to attain the DPP students normally undertake a placement in either industry or a research institute. To attain the DIAS students undertake a period of studies overseas at another educational institution.
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Biomedical science is concerned with understanding how diseases develop and how they may affect the normal functioning of the body. The aim of the discipline is the investigation of the disease process and, ultimately, the development of methods for monitoring, diagnosing, treating and preventing disease.
Competencies in both personal and interpersonal skills have been given priority in the design of the course content, together with a firm knowledge and understanding of science. The excellent reputation of the course has meant that graduates have been extremely successful in finding high-level career employment and are readily accepted for higher degree programmes at the world’s greatest universities.
Associate awards
Diploma in Professional Practice DPP
Diploma in International Academic Studies DIAS
Diploma in Professional Practice International DPPI
Attendance
Full-time 4 years.
Start dates
September 2024
Teaching, Learning and Assessment
Learning and teaching in biomedical sciences is normally through a combination of face-to-face lectures, hands-on practical classes, tutorials, seminars, problem-based learning and computer–assisted learning.
Assessment in modules is through a combination of coursework completed during the semester and/or sessional written examinations.
Coursework can take the form of practical reports, written assignments, class tests, presentations, case studies and dissertations.
Attendance and Independent Study
The content for each course is summarised on the relevant course page, along with an overview of the modules that make up the course.
Each course is approved by the University and meets the expectations of:
As part of your course induction, you will be provided with details of the organisation and management of the course, including attendance and assessment requirements - usually in the form of a timetable. For full-time courses, the precise timetable for each semester is not confirmed until close to the start date and may be subject to some change in the early weeks as all courses settle into their planned patterns. For part-time courses which require attendance on particular days and times, an expectation of the days and periods of attendance will be included in the letter of offer. A course handbook is also made available.
Courses comprise modules for which the notional effort involved is indicated by its credit rating. Each credit point represents 10 hours of student effort. Undergraduate courses typically contain 10, 20, or 40 credit modules (more usually 20) and postgraduate courses typically 15 or 30 credit modules.
The normal study load expectation for an undergraduate full-time course of study in the standard academic year is 120 credit points. This amounts to around 36-42 hours of expected teaching and learning per week, inclusive of attendance requirements for lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical work, fieldwork or other scheduled classes, private study, and assessment. Teaching and learning activities will be in-person and/or online depending on the nature of the course. Part-time study load is the same as full-time pro-rata, with each credit point representing 10 hours of student effort.
Postgraduate Master’s courses typically comprise 180 credits, taken in three semesters when studied full-time. A Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) comprises 60 credits and can usually be completed on a part-time basis in one year. A 120-credit Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) can usually be completed on a part-time basis in two years.
Class contact times vary by course and type of module. Typically, for a module predominantly delivered through lectures you can expect at least 3 contact hours per week (lectures/seminars/tutorials). Laboratory classes often require a greater intensity of attendance in blocks. Some modules may combine lecture and laboratory. The precise model will depend on the course you apply for and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. Prospective students will be consulted about any significant changes.
Assessment methods vary and are defined explicitly in each module. Assessment can be a combination of examination and coursework but may also be only one of these methods. Assessment is designed to assess your achievement of the module’s stated learning outcomes. You can expect to receive timely feedback on all coursework assessments. This feedback may be issued individually and/or issued to the group and you will be encouraged to act on this feedback for your own development.
Coursework can take many forms, for example: essay, report, seminar paper, test, presentation, dissertation, design, artefacts, portfolio, journal, group work. The precise form and combination of assessment will depend on the course you apply for and the module. Details will be made available in advance through induction, the course handbook, the module specification, the assessment timetable and the assessment brief. The details are subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.
Normally, a module will have 4 learning outcomes, and no more than 2 items of assessment. An item of assessment can comprise more than one task. The notional workload and the equivalence across types of assessment is standardised. The module pass mark for undergraduate courses is 40%. The module pass mark for postgraduate courses is 50%.
The class of Honours awarded in Bachelor’s degrees is usually determined by calculation of an aggregate mark based on performance across the modules at Levels 5 and 6, (which correspond to the second and third year of full-time attendance).
Level 6 modules contribute 70% of the aggregate mark and Level 5 contributes 30% to the calculation of the class of the award. Classification of integrated Master’s degrees with Honours include a Level 7 component. The calculation in this case is: 50% Level 7, 30% Level 6, 20% Level 5. At least half the Level 5 modules must be studied at the University for Level 5 to be included in the calculation of the class.
All other qualifications have an overall grade determined by results in modules from the final level of study.
In Masters degrees of more than 200 credit points the final 120 points usually determine the overall grading.
Figures from the academic year 2022-2023.
Academic profile
The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 60% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.
Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (19%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (22%) or Lecturers (57%).
We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic and learning support staff (85%) are recognised as fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) by Advance HE - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.
The profiles of many academic staff can be found on the University’s departmental websites and give a detailed insight into the range of staffing and expertise. The precise staffing for a course will depend on the department(s) involved and the availability and management of staff. This is subject to change annually and is confirmed in the timetable issued at the start of the course.
Occasionally, teaching may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff (usually qualified researchers) and specialist guest lecturers. In these cases, all staff are inducted, mostly through our staff development programme ‘First Steps to Teaching’. In some cases, usually for provision in one of our out-centres, Recognised University Teachers are involved, supported by the University in suitable professional development for teaching.
Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
This module is designed to introduce students to the fundamental biochemical pathways, an understanding of which are necessary for the further study of life and health sciences. The structure, function and metabolism of biological macromolecules and the regulation of the pathways involved in their metabolism are discussed in detail
Human Physiology & Anatomy
Year: 1
Status: C
This module provides an introduction to the study of human physiology and anatomy to underpin further study of the pathophysiology in health and disease.
Medical Cell Biology
Year: 1
Status: C
This module will enable students to develop an understanding of the cellular basis of life and the relevance of studies of cell structure and function at the molecular level to human disease. In addition, it will provide a foundation for further studies in genetics, microbiology, histology and biochemistry.
Chemistry and Pharmacology
Year: 1
Status: C
This module introduces general descriptive, physical, organic and inorganic chemistry and the principles underlying chemical properties and reactions of simple organic and inorganic compounds with applications to pharmacology.
Practical and Laboratory Skills
Year: 1
Status: C
This module aims to provide students with the basic skills and techniques required to work safely in a laboratory setting, which underpins further study and practice in the life and health sciences.
Scientific Communication and Health Data Science
Year: 1
Status: C
This module will introduce students to biomedical science as a science discipline and as a profession, as well as educating students about key transferable scientific skills, including communication, IT, research, critical analysis and statistical analysis.
Year two
Cellular Pathology
Year: 2
Status: C
This module provides a foundation in Cellular Pathology encompassing core aspects of professional practice from gross specimen to slide, and microscopic examination of normal and abnormal tissues (Histopathology) and cells (Cytopathology) for structural changes and indicators of disease.
Haematology and transfusion science
Year: 2
Status: C
This module provides a comprehensive overview of key concepts in haematology and transfusion science, with emphasis on their relevance in health and disease, as well as an appreciation of the application of these concepts in clinical practice. It provides the student with the appropriate knowledge and intellectual skills necessary to work in a routine or research laboratory setting and underpin further study in the biomedical sciences.
Clinical biochemistry
Year: 2
Status: C
This module is designed to provide an understanding in clinical biochemistry sufficient to underpin further study in the biomedical sciences.
Professional Practice
Year: 2
Status: C
This module will introduce the concepts and requirements of biobusinesses that are necessary to ensure professional conduct in a career in the biosciences. Laboratory management, quality control, data protection, health & safety and scientific communication are covered. This module will facilitate understanding of current professional practice as recognised throughout the varied range of local and national bioscience industries, as well as further developing skills and attributes that will enable graduates to pursue careers as biosciences professionals.
Applied Genetics
Year: 2
Status: C
This module considers genetic defects that contribute to human disease with study of recombinant DNA techniques, human inheritance, chromosomal aberrancies and inborn errors of metabolism, carcinogenesis and ageing. Practical experience of contemporary molecular biological techniques is also provided. Advances in molecular genetics and multi-omics are also discussed and provide an appreciation of the potential for improved diagnostics and therapeutics
Microbiology
Year: 2
Status: C
This module provides insight into the major historical events, discoveries, disciplines, activities and relevance of microorganisms to the different areas of human activity. A major goal is to provide a foundation for understanding and learning microbiology as a biological science and its relation to our public health and the environment.
Pathophysiology
Year: 2
Status: C
This module is designed to provide understanding of key concepts in pathology sufficient to underpin further study in the biomedical sciences
Immunology
Year: 2
Status: C
This module is designed to provide students with an understanding of the key concepts in immunology sufficient to underpin further study in the biomedical sciences. Additionally, the module aims to foster critical thinking, independent research skills, and an appreciation for the relevance of immunology in various scientific and medical contexts. Ultimately, students completing this module should be well-prepared to comprehend, analyze, and engage with immunological concepts in both theoretical and practical settings.
Year three
Diploma in International Academic Studies
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module provides an opportunity to undertake an extended period of study outside the UK and Republic of Ireland. Students will develop an enhanced understanding of the academic discipline whilst generating educational and cultural networks.
Placement: Diploma in Professional Practice
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to gain structured and professional work experience, in a work-based learning environment, as part of their planned programme of study. This experience allows students to develop, refine and reflect on their key personal and professional skills. The placement should significantly support the development of the student's employability skills, preparation for final year and enhance their employability journey.
Year four
Investigative project
Year: 4
Status: C
This Investigative Project is an independent piece of work completed by the student, designed to develop key research and transferable skills in a discipline relevant to biomedical sciences/biosciences.
Clinical & Molecular Genetics
Year: 4
Status: C
The module considers in depth, key areas of genetics and introduces specialised topics based on recent advances and current considerations in the human and molecular genetics field. The application of available genomic/SNP data towards stratified and personalised medicine will be discussed.
Clinical Immunology & Medical Microbiology
Year: 4
Status: C
This module provides a detailed insight into the interaction between a microbial pathogen and its human host. The interaction between micro-organisms and the immune defence mechanism is highlighted along with the consequences of immune disfunction. Consideration is also given to the use of vaccines and public health approaches to avoid and eliminate infection. The module is taught by a combination of lectures and tutorials with selected reading using online supplementary materials strongly encouraged.
Molecular pathology
Year: 4
Status: C
This module presents an in-depth consideration of the molecular pathology of the major diseases of humans. The module enables students to integrate practical and theoretical information gained in earlier modules. Current and emerging strategies in disease diagnosis, treatment and monitoring are also discussed, which will underpin further study in Biomedical Sciences.
Pharmacology and Evidence-Based Practice
Year: 4
Status: C
This module provides an understanding of applied and systems pharmacology of direct relevance to diverse clinical, industrial, and research careers, with an emphasis on development and application of advanced knowledge and skills, including utilization of evidence-based practice approach.
Standard entry conditions
We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.
- Two from Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Biology or Nutrition and Food Science, of which Chemistry is preferred; or
- One from Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Biology or Nutrition and Food Science, of which Chemistry is preferred if applying with Digitial Technology, PE, Geography, ICT, Applied Science, Environmental Technology or Single Award Life & Health Science
Applied Science Double Award and Life & Health Sciences Double Award are also acceptableas 2 science subjects
See BTEC for combination of A Level/BTEC requirements
Essential Subjects (You will need one of the following): OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma in Applied Science (RQF) (603/0695/6) Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science (RQF) (601/7437/7)
We will also accept smaller BTEC/OCR qualifications (i.e. Diploma or Extended Certificate / Introductory Diploma / Subsidiary Diploma) in combination with A Levels or other acceptable level 3 qualifications.
Essential Subjects (You will need one of the following):
OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Diploma in Applied Science (RQF) (601/7461/4) Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Applied Science (RQF) (601/7435/3)
The following are suitable along with a Science A-Level (Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Biology, Nutrition and Food Science, Digitial Technology, PE, Geography, ICT, Environmental Technology or Single Award Life & Health Science): OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate in Applied Science (RQF) (601/7458/4) Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Human Biology (RQF) (603/3040/5) Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Science (RQF) (601/7436/5)
We will also continue to accept QCF versions of these qualifications although grades asked for may differ. Check what grades you will be asked for by comparing the requirements above with the information under QCF in the Applied General and Tech Level Qualifications section of our Entry Requirements - https://www.ulster.ac.uk/study/entrance-requirements/undergraduate-entry-requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate
120 UCAS Tariff Points to include a minimum of five subjects Higher Level with Grade H3 H3 in two science subjects. English at minimum of H6 if studied at Higher level or minimum of O4 if studied at Ordinary Level is required.
Course Specific Subject requirements
- Two Science subjectsfrom Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Biology or Home Economics OR
- One from Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Biology or Home Economics, of which Chemistry is preferred if applying withAgricultural Science,PE, Geography, Technology
If Maths is not passed at H3, it will not count as one of the science subjects, but you must still pass this at minimum of H6 if studied at Higher level or minimum of O4 if studied at Ordinary Level in addition to meeting the science requirements.
Grades BBBCC to include BB in - Two from Chemistry, Physics, Maths, or Biology, of which Chemistry is preferred; OR
- One from Chemistry, Physics, Maths, or Biology, of which Chemistry is preferred if applying with Health & Food Technology PE, Geography
English & Mathematics required at Standard Level 1, 2 or 3
Scottish Advanced Highers
Grades CCC to include 2 science subjects – - Two from Chemistry, Physics, Maths, or Biology of which Chemistry is preferred; OR
- One from Chemistry, Physics, Maths, or Biology of which Chemistry is preferred if applying with Health & Food Technology, PE, Geography
English & Mathematics required at Standard Level 1, 2 or 3
International Baccalaureate
Overall IB profile minimum 26 points to include 13 points at higher level to include two science subjects as follows;
- Two from Chemistry, Physics, Maths, or Biology OR
- One from Chemistry, Physics, Maths, or Biology of which Chemistry is preferred if applying with PE, Geography.
English is also required within the International Baccalaureate
At least 6 points must be achieved in each of the two science subjects.
Access to Higher Education (HE)
Pass science-based Access Course with a minimum overall mark of 65% and a minimum of 65% in each level 3 module. To include a 20 credit Level 2 Mathematics module, passed at 40% or successful completion of NICATS Mathematics as part of the pre-2021 Access Diploma.
Overall profile of 24 Distinctions and 21 Merits (60 Credit Access Course) (GB Access Course)
GCSE
For full-time study you must satisfy the General Entrance Requirements for admission to a first degree course and hold a GCSE pass at grade C/4 or above in English Language. You must also hold a GCSE pass in Mathematics and Chemistry or Double Award Science at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent).
Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Communication will be accepted as equivalent to GCSE English.
Please note that for purposes of entry to this course the Level 2 Essential / Key Skill in Application of Number is NOT regarded as an acceptable alternative to GCSE Maths.
English Language Requirements
English language requirements for international applicants The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
Pass HND with overall Merit to include 60 distinctions in level 5 credits/units may be specified
Pass HNC with overall Distinction to include 90 distinctions in level 4 credits/units may be specified.
You may also meet the course entry requirements with combinations of different qualifications to the same standard as recognised by the University (provided subject requirements as noted above are met).
For further information regarding combination offer requirements, please contact admissions staff on T: +44 (0) 28 7012 3099 or E: w.kearney@ulster.ac.uk
As part of your course you may have a placement/project that involves contact with patients and/or potential exposure to human blood/tissue. Should this scenario arise you will be asked to complete a Health Declaration Form which will include information about your vaccination history. Following screening of your form, it may be necessary for you to meet with a nurse or for a medical to be arranged with the University Occupational Health Physician. Depending on the exact nature of your placement/project you may require immunity from Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Chicken pox and Tuberculosis and/or have completed a course of Hepatitis B vaccinations with subsequent positive serology results. You will be advised further should the need for health screening and vaccination arise.
A Biomedical Sciences graduate can specialize in several areas; as a healthcare scientist working in a clinical laboratory (following completion of a professional portfolio to register for clinical practice), their role is the diagnosis of disease, an evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment and screening via the analysis of fluids and tissue samples from patients; as a research scientist, working at the cutting edge of research to develop new technologies, tests and treatments for the detection, monitoring or treatment of disease; as a teacher, in science at post primary or as a lecturer in third level education; as a scientific writer; numerous opportunities exist for the qualified Biomedical Scientist.
Graduates are eligible to apply for Hospital Laboratory Diagnostics (Trainee Biomedical Scientist enabling HCPC state registration after completion of portfolio)
Opportunity to complete an MBiomedSci which involves one additional year of study consisting of online modules and an internship in the USA.
Medicine/Physician Associate entry requires post graduate application.
Teaching in Education requires PGCE.
Work placement / study abroad
Apply and test your knowledge in the “real world” by undertaking a supervised placement year of work experience in a research laboratory in the UK or abroad. The usual duration is 48 weeks.
Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).
Apply
Start dates
September 2024
Fees and funding
Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and EU Settlement Status Fees
£4,750.00
England, Scotland, Wales and the Islands Fees
£9,250.00
International Fees
£16,320.00
Scholarships, awards and prizes
The following prizes are awarded to high performing students on this specific degree course:
(Year 1) Gerry Magee Award; (Year 2) IBMS Award: Haematology and Blood Transfusion; Cellular Pathology; Microbiology; Clinical Biochemistry; (Final year) IBMS President's Award; Northern Ireland IBMS Placement Award; Ulster Immunology group prize; Physiological Society Prize in Physiology; Randox Rising Star Award;
The following awards are also presented as part of the Randox Training Academy: Randox Rising Star Award; Randox Student Stellar Award; Randox Excellence Award
Additional mandatory costs
The costs for health screening and vaccinations are approximately £35 - 155 depending on the vaccinations required.
It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.
Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.
There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.
The University endeavours to deliver courses and programmes of study in accordance with the description set out in this prospectus. The University’s prospectus is produced at the earliest possible date in order to provide maximum assistance to individuals considering applying for a course of study offered by the University. The University makes every effort to ensure that the information contained in the prospectus is accurate, but it is possible that some changes will occur between the date of printing and the start of the academic year to which it relates. Please note that the University’s website is the most up-to-date source of information regarding courses, campuses and facilities and we strongly recommend that you always visit the website before making any commitments.
Although the University at all times endeavours to provide the programmes and services described, the University cannot guarantee the provision of any course or facility and the University may make variations to the contents or methods of delivery of courses, discontinue, merge or combine courses, change the campus at which they are provided and introduce new courses if such action is considered necessary by the University (acting reasonably). Not all such circumstances are entirely foreseeable but changes may be required if matters such as the following arise: industrial action interferes with the University’s ability to teach the course as planned, lack of demand makes a course economically unviable for the University, departure of key staff renders the University unable to deliver the course, changes in legislation or government policy including changes, if any, resulting from the UK departing the European Union, withdrawal or reduction of funding specifically provided for the course or other unforeseeable circumstances beyond the University’s reasonable control.
If the University discontinues any courses, it will use its best endeavours to provide a suitable alternative course. In addition, courses may change during the course of study and in such circumstances the University will normally undertake a consultation process prior to any such changes being introduced and seek to ensure that no student is unreasonably prejudiced as a consequence of any such change.
Providing the University has complied with the requirements of all applicable consumer protection laws, the University does not accept responsibility for the consequences of any modification, relocation or cancellation of any course, or part of a course, offered by the University. The University will give due and proper consideration to the effects thereof on individual students and take the steps necessary to minimise the impact of such effects on those affected. 5. The University is not liable for disruption to its provision of educational or other services caused by circumstances beyond its reasonable control providing it takes all reasonable steps to minimise the resultant disruption to such services.
Testimonials
After completing my A levels, I was unsure of what I wanted to do or study but always had an interest in science. Through studying a Biomedical science degree, it allowed me to keep my options open and gain greater knowledge of the sciences with many modules in biology and chemistry.
What attracted me to the course was the ability to be able to take a placement year in professional practice between the second and final year of study. Having this opportunity enhances employability and through the university exposure to industrial links made it easier to look for and gain a suitable placement. Additionally, through completing placement, you receive a Diploma in Professional Practice.
Ulster University is one of the top Biomedical schools in the UK. Lecturers always have material readily available and provide increased support in areas of difficulty. Within the course there are also many opportunities to receive prizes for academic achievements. A highlight for me was obtaining the Gerry Magee prize for having the highest mark in Bioanalytical chemistry in first year. In the future my plans are to complete my placement, graduate, and pursue a career in research.
Rebecca Douglas, Year 2, Biomedical Science
Sustainability at Ulster
Ulster continues to develop and support sustainability initiatives with our staff, students, and external partners across various aspects of teaching, research, professional services operations, and governance.
At Ulster every person, course, research project, and professional service area on every campus either does or can contribute in some way towards the global sustainability and climate change agenda.
We are guided by both our University Strategy People, Place and Partnerships: Delivering Sustainable Futures for All and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Our work in this area is already being recognised globally. Most recently by the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact rating where we were recognised as Joint 5th Globally for Outreach Activities and Joint Top 20 Globally for Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals.
Visit our Sustainability at Ulster destination to learn more about how the University strategy and the activities of Ulster University support each of the Sustainable Development Goals.